As residents of the Lower Garden District of New Orleans we know that our community thrives on a vibrant mix of people and small businesses. Unfortunately, our neighborhood is under threat due to the proposed construction of a TopGolf facility as part of the River District Neighborhood development. This project has moved forward with minimal input from us, the people who call this place home. The process has been shrouded in secrecy and feels more like backroom dealing than transparent city planning.

We were initially excited about the proposed vision for this parcel of land which consisted of workforce and affordable housing, public greenspace a grocery store, and other businesses that would benefit our community and the entire city. We were eager to see the development team bring the vision to reality. The original development plan, which was presented with much fanfare and support from LGD residents did not include a TopGolf. 

These images below were part of that original presentation to LGD residents in March of 2022. A recording of this presentation can also be viewed here. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The inclusion of TopGolf on this land is not at all in keeping with the plan that our neighborhood and others were presented and so encouraged by.

The original plan helped the developers win support from residents across this city, but those plans are virtually unrecognizable today and the civic-minded statements are long forgotten.

To be clear, our objection to the development of this TopGolf is not just about preserving the aesthetic or character of our historic neighborhood.

OUR OBJECTION TO THE DEVELOPMENT OF THIS TOPGOLF:

• Is about preserving quality of life for residents who are already deeply invested in this neighborhood and the city and ensuring it for new residents in the future.
  
  
• Is because of the significant environmental concerns that have not been addressed.
• Is also due to the unanswered questions regarding the impact on traffic to and from the CCC, to and from the port, and in our neighborhood.
  
  
• Is because of our belief in responsible land use, like the original development plan, which promised much-needed affordable housing, services, and jobs to this 12-acre parcel in the midst of family homes and apartments that would bolster and expand the residential footprint of a neighborhood.
  
  
• Is most importantly about ensuring transparency in public processes and respecting residents' rights to have their voices heard when it comes to development, especially on highly valuable public land.

Residents of the Lower Garden District and New Orleans want this land to be developed. We want it developed responsibly and with the greatest benefit to all, especially those living in its nearest proximity.

We are calling upon city officials to halt construction immediately until there has been sufficient consultation with local residents and scrutiny of existing planning. We deserve more than secretive processes and rushed decisions made behind closed doors; we deserve transparency and respect for our community's needs.

Please sign this petition if you believe in fair development practices that prioritize local communities over corporate interests and evasive developers.

Learn more about the concerns and this effort:
• Why Is This TopGolf So Controversial?
• Read our full letter to New Orleans City Councilmembers here
• Explore some FAQs 
• See the timeline of events or view our TopGolf Town Hall Meetings
• View some of the results from our neighborhood survey
• Follow us on Facebook and Instagram

Thank you for your time and for signing this petition, and if you can, please join us on March 21, 10am at City Council Chambers to voice your opposition in-person. ***UPDATE** The City Council Vote was DELAYED FOR TWO WEEKS. Please stay engaged, follow us on social media and sign up for emails so you don't miss when the rescheduled date is announced. THANK YOU FOR ALL YOUR SUPPORT~